Jewelweed

Botanical

What is it

Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis, also called spotted touch-me-not) is a North American annual plant whose sap is traditionally used topically to relieve poison ivy, stinging nettle, and insect bite irritation.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Poison ivy / contact dermatitis

Limited Evidence

Mixed evidence. Some studies show benefit comparable to soap; others show no advantage over washing alone. Helpful if used promptly.

How it works

Jewelweed sap contains 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (lawsone) and other compounds. Traditional use is topical: applying crushed stems and leaves to skin after contact with poison ivy or other irritants. Several controlled studies have produced mixed results: some show jewelweed reduces symptoms of contact dermatitis, others show no benefit over placebo or simple washing with soap. The most consistent finding is that prompt washing with any agent (jewelweed, soap, water) reduces urushiol-induced rash.

Dosage

Topical: apply crushed plant or extract to affected area. No standardized internal dose; oral use is not well established.

When and how to take it

Topical: apply as soon as possible after exposure to irritant for best effect.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Fresh plant sap, tincture, soap

Available as fresh plant, soap, tincture, and salve.

Topical only is well established.

Safety

Topical use is generally well tolerated. Allergic reactions are possible. Oral use is not well characterized; large quantities may be irritating.

Who should be cautious

Patch test before broad topical use if allergy-prone. Limited safety data for oral use, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Interactions

No major interactions reported with topical use.

Food sources

Not a food source

Amount
N/A
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does jewelweed really cure poison ivy?⌄

It can help reduce irritation if applied promptly, but evidence is mixed. Washing the area with soap and water within an hour is the most reliable intervention.

References

Jewelweed on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Jewelweed on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Jewelweed (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Jewelweed with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.